5 Steps to Develop a Successful DCS Modernization Strategy

Summary

If you think your distributed control system (DCS) has run its course, you’re not alone. Currently, the global DCS installed base nearing end of life total about $65 billion. Many of these systems are more than 25 years old and in dire need of updating.
 
Why is there such a backlog of outdated systems? The simple truth is that many are still keeping a plant running, albeit not as well as it could. Oftentimes, organizations would rather live with the significant pain an obsolete system inflicts than be subjected to the perceived risks of migrating to a modern system.
 
Automation projects can be difficult to manage–and difficult to justify financially. Still, every day we work with companies who have successfully made the case for modernization based on existing system shortcomings.
 
Reasons to replace a DCS can include an increased failure rate, a higher incidence of off-spec product, accelerating maintenance costs, a lack of legacy DCS expertise, capacity limitations, an inability to interface with contemporary systems and more. On the flip side, many companies also come to recognize that a DCS modernization is a rare opportunity for significant process improvements–and innovation.
 

What’s the plan to modernize your plant operation?

Converting a legacy control platform to a modern DCS may be complex, and it’s not a “one-size-fits-all” endeavor. To help mitigate risk–and spread costs over time – many companies choose a phased approach to migration. On the other hand, a “rip and replace” conversion strategy is appropriate for others.
 
Simply put, each modernization project is unique. Based on experiences working with hundreds of companies, there are five best practices that lead to modernization success.
 
1. Early Planning. A successful modernization begins long before any detailed engineering–with an upfront, comprehensive evaluation of the legacy system. Initial objectives at the front end include aligning automation outcomes with business goals, determining the preferred options, obtaining capital funding and finalizing the scope, cost and schedule.
 
Doing so helps establish justification for the project, define it – and align all stakeholders. Keep in mind, the most cost-effective time to define the scope is at the beginning. Costs escalate considerably if basic decisions such as which areas of the plant to include or what interface to apply are revisited later.
 
2. Engage Experts. Chances are, you already know who to call when faced with a perplexing application challenge. It could be a system integrator or automation supplier. This same network of support can also provide critical assistance throughout your conversion process. Calling on experts when needed saves both time and money.
 
3. Establish Standards. Establishing–and following–standards is as critical as early planning. If appropriate company standards don’t exist, they will need to be developed using internal expertise–or by calling on a system integrator or automation supplier for help.
 
The more thoroughly you specify and document network protocol, security requirements, I/O and HMI criteria, interface requirements and controller configuration, the easier it will be to maintain and improve your system. This will also benefit future employees of the company when they eventually conduct a similar modernization exercise years from now.
 
4. Execution Discipline. Like any extensive undertaking, a DCS conversion is complex and requires sound project management. Without execution discipline, any large project runs the risk of spiraling out of control.
 
To keep your conversion on time and on budget, be sure to follow a consistent execution strategy based on accepted industry best practices. If you do not have resources on staff, consider engaging a certified project management professional (PMP) to help guide your project.
 
5. Expect Innovation. Don’t be content with merely duplicating the content in your old control system. Remember, 25-year-old legacy systems are unlikely to deliver the same advantages that a state-of-the-art modern DCS can. Your migration project is an extraordinary opportunity to leverage new technologies to control your process optimally. Don’t replicate – innovate.
 

Find the right DCS for your modernization efforts

When it comes to selecting the right DCS for your operation, choosing a modern system can offer unique advantages. For example, Rockwell Automation’s PlantPAx® DCS release provides real-time data and analytics for informed decision-making and is supported throughout its entire lifecycle. Those in batch, hybrid and heavy industries can benefit from a DCS that is purpose-built for plant-wide control and able to serve larger and more complex operations securely.
 
Planning a DCS conversion soon? Engaging the right experts early is essential. Talk with a trusted partner or visit Rockwell Automation's website for more information.